From Ukraine to Gulf: How Iran’s cheap drones are changing modern warfare

The distinctive buzz of Iranian Shahed drones, seen in Ukraine for years, is now a common sound over the Persian Gulf. Tehran has launched these drones in response to US and Israeli attacks, targeting multiple Gulf states.

Shahed drones are small, relatively cheap, and can carry up to 40 kilograms of explosives. While slower than missiles, their low cost and large numbers allow Iran to overwhelm air defences. These are game-changers in modern warfare, combining surveillance, precision strikes, and AI-enabled targeting.



Russia has used Shahed drones in Ukraine since early 2022. After importing them from Iran, Russia developed its version, the Geran, produced in large numbers in Tatarstan. These drones are flown in swarms to distract air defences from more expensive missiles and to deliver consistent damage. Ukraine has responded with mobile machine-gun teams and interceptor drones, but the sheer volume of attacks strains its defences.

After US and Israeli attacks over the weekend, Iran targeted Israel, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, and the UAE, striking ports, oil facilities, bases, airports, and some high-rise buildings. In Dubai, air defences intercepted 165 ballistic missiles, two cruise missiles, and over 540 drones in two days, though debris caused fires at several locations.

Some drones reached as far as the UK Royal Air Force base in Akrotiri, Cyprus. Sirens went off when Iranian drones approached and were intercepted on consecutive days.